Questions: What was the apostle Paul's major contribution to Christianity? A. As one of the original followers of Jesus, he helped found the Christian church. B. As an author of the Gospels, he preserved the life and teachings of Jesus. C. As an early convert to Christianity, he helped it spread beyond its Jewish roots. D. As a missionary, he started new churches in Arabia and the Byzantine empire.

The answer is C. As an early convert to Christianity, he helped it spread beyond its Jewish roots.

This option is incorrect because Paul was not one of the original twelve apostles of Jesus. He became a follower of Jesus after Jesus' crucifixion, through a conversion experience on the road to Damascus.

This option is incorrect because Paul did not write any of the Gospels. The Gospels were written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Paul's contributions are primarily through his epistles (letters) in the New Testament.

This option is correct. Paul played a crucial role in spreading Christianity to the Gentile (non-Jewish) world. His missionary journeys and epistles were instrumental in establishing Christian communities throughout the Roman Empire, thus expanding Christianity beyond its initial Jewish context.

This option is partially correct but not the best answer. While Paul did establish churches in various regions, his most significant contribution was spreading Christianity beyond its Jewish roots, as mentioned in Option C. Arabia and the Byzantine Empire are not specifically highlighted in historical accounts of Paul's missions.